Interdisciplinary Lesson at Savremena Gimnazija: Exploring Identity Through Sociology and Literature

Teachers of Serbian language and literature, Vanja Bajić, and sociology, Ana Brkić Jovanović, designed an engaging interdisciplinary project at Savremena Gimnazija, allowing students to explore the theme of identity through two distinct perspectives—sociology and literature. The project aimed to connect sociological theories of identity with the character of Meursault, the protagonist of The Stranger by Albert Camus.

Simulation as a Bridge Between Fiction and Contemporary Society

As part of the project, students worked in pairs, answering questions in a simulated interview where Meursault visited a psychotherapist shortly after his mother's death. This interaction was set in a modern context, enabling a deeper understanding of Meursault’s character and his identity in contemporary society.

Through this simulation, students examined how identity evolves and shifts under social influences and reflected on whether life challenges can be anticipated and supported by professionals at critical moments. This task encouraged creativity, imagination, and the application of literary and sociological knowledge, enriching their understanding of Meursault’s inner struggle and societal context.

The students’ work demonstrated that this interdisciplinary approach was highly inspiring, as it expanded their knowledge, fostered empathy, and highlighted the importance of support in the process of identity formation.

I am extremely pleased and proud to be the parent of a Savremena student. During my first encounter with the school management, when I asked about my child’s potential enrolment, I saw how much love, enthusiasm and professionalism you put in your work. I was impressed by your approach, ideas and methods. I couldn’t believe something like this existed in our country! It doesn’t take long to realise that this is a school you would recommend to everyone. Creativity, modern technology, top-quality education, and most of all, the humaneness that can be seen throughout the school, make it truly different and worthy of its name – Savremena Gimnazija. With such an approach, the success of this school and, consequently, our children’s success, is unavoidable. Congratulations! Jelena Đorđević, Andrija’s mum
Contemporary in any sense of the word, our school offers functional knowledge and quality preparation for tertiary education in Serbia and abroad. Implementing modern and creative teaching in the classroom, where the teachers’ pedagogy and students’ performance are aligned with the highest academic standards for the high-school finals, our school develops linguistic, mathematical, scientific, artistic, cultural, technical and ICT competence, which is a prerequisite for further education and professional development. Teaching is supported by the interactive whiteboards and educational software, whereas practice exercises research and critical thinking.